Transport Insights

In another sign that “careful now” remains the government’s mantra, ministers claim to have to set up a new “taskforce”, with no powers, to tackle the barriers to new mass transit systems across the UK, by…making recommendations to themselves.

In similar vein the Department for Transport (DfT) will also consult on giving mayors, powers to make Transport and Works Act orders (TWAOs) – but not devolved funding.

I’m not saying the DfT has a habit of claiming that something is actually happening when nothing is actually happening but its press release proudly announced:

New tram, light rail and bus networks in towns and cities have taken a step forward, as the government launches the new Mass Transit Taskforce.

The group, which includes leading experts from the world of transport, industry, finance and academia, will identify the biggest hurdles facing the introduction of mass transit systems across the UK and how to overcome them.

With the step forward so small as to be undetectable, I think the underlying message is, don’t hold your breath.

At least they got West Yorkshire mayor Tracy Brabin, whose plans to bring trams to the region are being obstructed by the DfT, to say something positive through gritted teeth.

The announcement is so half-arsed that the DfT has only announced half the panel. So far it includes Jason Prince, director of the Urban Transport Group, which will provide the secretariat for the taskforce.

Giving mayors power to make TWAOs is for sure a positive step but if central government is blocking the plan, there is nothing to approve.

Meanwhile, in a further sign that the government has an endless supply of cheap gimmicks, the government has announced free bus travel for children – during August only – and released a picture of a train with different branding.